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Exion Clear in Brookline, MA

Session Time:
20-30 minutes
Downtime:
1-3 days of flaking
Results Last:
About 12 months
FDA Status:
FDA-cleared
Exion Clear fractional RF resurfacing treatment in Brookline MA on the cheek at Smile Brookline Beacon Street

Skin Resurfacing

Exion Clear in Brookline, MA is a fractional radiofrequency resurfacing treatment for uneven tone, rough texture and crepey skin on the face, neck and decolletage. No needles are used: a patterned applicator delivers RF energy in a fine grid across the skin. Patients come from Coolidge Corner, Brookline Village, Chestnut Hill, Newton, Allston, Brighton and Boston.

Dr. Sara Stock, DDS added Exion Clear as the third applicator on the practice's BTL EXION platform, alongside Exion Face and Exion RF Microneedling. Because she assesses facial muscles and bone structure every clinical day, she can tell whether a concern is surface texture, which Exion Clear treats, or laxity and lost muscle tone, which call for a different applicator entirely.

Before and after Exion Clear results showing even skin tone and smoother texture at Smile Brookline MA

The Challenge

What Exion Clear Changes at the Surface of the Skin

Understanding Skin Resurfacing

The problem is not one deep line. It is the whole surface. Skin on the cheeks looks slightly mottled in daylight, the neck has developed a fine crinkled texture that shows when you turn your head, and the upper chest carries sun damage that a good serum no longer hides. Makeup settles into the texture rather than smoothing it. The outer layer of skin is renewing more slowly than it did at 30, and the collagen just beneath it has thinned, so light no longer reflects evenly.
Exion Clear works on exactly those two layers. The applicator delivers fractional radiofrequency energy through a grid of tiny contact points, creating microscopic treated columns in the epidermis and upper dermis while the skin between them is left untouched. Those columns trigger controlled renewal: damaged surface cells shed over the following days, and new collagen forms beneath. Because only a fraction of the surface is treated at once, healing takes a few days of light flaking, and tone and texture improve with each session.

Understanding Your Treatment

What Is Exion Clear?

The Science of Fractional RF

Exion Clear is the needle-free resurfacing applicator on the BTL EXION platform. Its patterned tip delivers fractional radiofrequency, BTL's Smart Microablation, as an even grid of microscopic treated zones across the outer skin layers. It is FDA-cleared for dermatological procedures requiring fractional treatment of the skin, and we use it for uneven tone, rough texture and crepey skin on the face, neck and decolletage.

Fractional means only a small share of the surface is treated per pass, so untouched skin around each column speeds healing. Heat lifts away damaged surface cells and prompts new collagen beneath. The skin flakes lightly for a few days, tone evens first, then texture smooths over three sessions.

Treatment Timeline:

Treatment Time:
20-30 minutes
First Signs:
1-2 weeks
Full Effect:
3 months post-course
Recovery:
1-3 days of flaking

What We Treat

Exion Clear Treatment Areas

Face, Neck and Decolletage

Uneven Skin Tone
Evens patchy tone and mild sun-related discolouration on the cheeks
Rough Texture
Smooths a coarse, dull surface so light reflects evenly again
Crepey Neck Skin
Refines the fine crinkled texture that develops across the neck
Decolletage Sun Damage
Treats textural sun damage and mottling across the upper chest
Fine Surface Lines
Softens shallow lines around the mouth and across the cheeks
Enlarged Pores
Tightens the surface so pores on the nose and cheeks look smaller

Benefits of Exion Clear

Resurfacing without needles

No NeedlesResurfaces the skin without a single needle entering itShort RecoveryLight flaking for one to three days, then back to normalTreats Neck and ChestFace, neck and decolletage all treatable, where crepey skin shows firstFractional HealingUntreated skin between columns speeds repair and lowers pigment riskResults Keep BuildingCollagen continues developing for around three months after a course

Exion Clear vs. Alternatives

Surface tone and texture, collagen at depth and muscle tone are three separate problems. Exion Clear is the treatment aimed at the surface.

TreatmentMechanismTimeResultsDurationDowntimeBest For
Exion ClearNeedle-free fractional RF20-30 min1-2 weeksAbout 12 months1-3 daysTone, texture and crepey skin at the surface
Exion RF MicroneedlingNeedle-delivered RF with exosomes45-60 min1-2 weeks12-18 months1-3 daysPores, scarring and deeper texture change
Exion FaceNeedle-free RF plus ultrasoundAbout 30 min4-6 weeks6-12 monthsNoneMild laxity and skin hydration
Fractional CO2 LaserAblative laser columns30-60 min2-4 weeks2-5 years5-10 daysDeep lines and heavy sun damage
Chemical PeelAcid exfoliation of the surface20-30 min1-2 weeks3-6 months2-7 daysMild tone and texture on a smaller budget

Is This Right for You

Who Is a Good Candidate for Exion Clear?

Finding Your Best Skin Treatment

Exion Clear treats the surface of the skin: uneven tone, rough or dull texture, fine surface lines and crepey skin on the neck and chest. It does not lift, add volume or change muscle tone, and saying so plainly at the consultation is what keeps expectations realistic.

Ideal Candidates for Exion Clear

  • Adults from their mid-thirties onward with uneven tone or a coarse, dull surface
  • Patients with crepey or finely creased skin on the neck or decolletage
  • Anyone with early sun-related texture change who wants to avoid needles
  • Patients who cannot accommodate the week or more of downtime that ablative laser resurfacing involves
  • People able to complete three sessions and protect the skin from sun throughout the course

Who Should Wait or Avoid Exion Clear

  • Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Anyone with an active skin infection, cold sore outbreak, open lesion or rash in the treatment area
  • Patients with a pacemaker, implanted defibrillator or other electronic implant
  • Anyone who has taken isotretinoin within the past six months
  • Patients with a history of keloid scarring, an active autoimmune skin condition, or a suntan or self-tan on the area

We treat the face, neck and decolletage only; there is no body applicator in this practice. If your main concern is laxity rather than surface quality, Exion Face for skin firmness is the applicator that addresses it, and a softening jawline usually needs muscle tone treated as well. Patient guidance on energy-based resurfacing is published by the American Academy of Dermatology.

Your Experience

What Happens During Exion Clear Treatment

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Assessment

    Dr. Stock examines the skin in daylight and photographs the face, neck or chest at baseline.

  2. Preparation

    The area is cleansed and topical numbing cream is applied for about 30 minutes.

  3. Treatment

    Dr. Stock presses the Exion Clear tip across the area in a grid, delivering fractional RF with each pulse.

  4. Cooling

    A soothing balm and barrier cream settle the skin, and sunscreen is applied before you leave.

  5. Course

    Three sessions spaced three to four weeks apart, with a review three months after the last.

Risks and Side Effects

What to Know

Common Exion Clear Side Effects

Redness and warmth for a few hours after treatment are expected, followed by a fine grid pattern and a sandpaper texture for one to three days while the treated columns shed. Mild dryness and light flaking during the first week are normal and settle with the barrier cream we provide.

Less Common Complications

Redness beyond a week, small crusts at individual treatment points and temporary post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can occur, the last more often in deeper skin tones or after recent sun exposure, which is why conservative settings and strict sun protection matter. Cold sore reactivation is possible with a history of herpes simplex. Blistering, infection and scarring are rare with correct energy selection.

Safety and FDA Status

Exion Clear is FDA-cleared for dermatological procedures requiring fractional treatment of the skin. Because only a fraction of the surface is treated per pass, healing is faster and pigmentation risk lower than with fully ablative resurfacing, and published series include skin phototypes I to VI. Dr. Sara Stock, DDS screens every patient for implanted devices, pregnancy, isotretinoin use, keloid tendency and autoimmune skin conditions. General guidance is available from the American Academy of Dermatology.

Investment

Exion Clear Cost in Brookline

Pricing and Payment Options

How Much Does Exion Clear Cost in Brookline?

Exion Clear is priced by the area treated and by the number of sessions in your course, and we confirm the exact figure at your complimentary aesthetic consultation rather than publishing a single price. The main variables are whether you treat the face alone or add the neck and decolletage, how much sun damage is present, and whether Exion Clear is combined with another applicator on the EXION platform in the same plan. A standard course is three sessions, and the total is agreed before anything is booked.

Consultation and Flexible Payment Options

Aesthetic consultations at Smile Brookline are complimentary, and we will say so if your concern would respond better to a different treatment. Cosmetic treatment is not covered by dental or medical insurance.

The Smile Brookline Difference

Why Choose Smile Brookline for Exion Clear in Brookline, MA

Beacon Street Since 1992

Dr. Sara Stock, DDS assesses facial muscles and bone structure every clinical day, which is why she can separate surface texture from laxity and muscle tone before recommending anything. Exion Clear is the right applicator for the first problem only, and a complimentary consultation exists to work out which problem you actually have.

  • Three EXION Applicators

    Clear, Face and RF Microneedling available in one practice

  • Layer-First Assessment

    Surface, dermis and muscle assessed as separate targets

  • Free Consultation

    Aesthetic consultations at Smile Brookline are complimentary

  • Dental Practice Setting

    Treated by a clinician you already see, in a clinical practice

Exion RF microneedling treatment in Brookline MA for skin texture at Smile Brookline Beacon Street

Explore More

RF Microneedling

Exion radiofrequency microneedling with exosome therapy for smoother, refined skin.

  1. Builds Real Collagen
  2. Short Recovery
  3. Safe for All Skin Tones

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Exion Face

Needle-free radiofrequency and targeted ultrasound for firmer skin on the face and neck.

  1. Needle-Free
  2. Boosts Hyaluronic Acid
  3. No Downtime

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Emface

Tone facial muscles and rebuild collagen in 20-minute sessions without needles.

  1. No Needles
  2. Zero Downtime
  3. Muscle and Skin Together

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Emface

Tone facial muscles and rebuild collagen in 20-minute sessions without needles.

  1. No Needles
  2. Zero Downtime
  3. Muscle and Skin Together

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Exion Clear

How much does Exion Clear cost in Brookline, MA?
Exion Clear is priced by area and by the number of sessions, and the figure is confirmed at your complimentary aesthetic consultation. Treating the face alone costs less than adding the neck and decolletage, and a standard course is three sessions. Cherry monthly payment plans and major credit cards are accepted, and cosmetic treatment is not covered by insurance.
How long do Exion Clear results last?
Around twelve months for most patients, with a single maintenance session once a year holding the improvement. Collagen continues developing for about three months after the last session, so the result at two weeks understates the final picture. Sun exposure is the main thing that shortens results, which is why daily sunscreen matters.
Does Exion Clear hurt?
Topical numbing cream is applied for about 30 minutes beforehand, after which most patients describe brisk warmth and a prickling sensation rather than pain. The neck and upper chest tend to be more sensitive than the cheeks. Energy and coverage are adjusted to your comfort during the session, and the warmth fades within a few hours.
When will I see results from Exion Clear?
Skin usually looks brighter and more even one to two weeks after the first session, once the fine flaking has cleared. Texture and crepey skin improve progressively with each of the three sessions, and the full result appears around three months after the last one. We photograph at baseline so improvement can be assessed objectively.
How many Exion Clear sessions do I need?
Three sessions spaced three to four weeks apart for most patients. Heavier sun damage on the chest sometimes needs a fourth. After the course, one maintenance session a year is usually enough. Splitting the course over a longer period reduces the effect, so we schedule all three before starting.
What is the difference between Exion Clear and Exion RF Microneedling?
Depth and needles. Exion Clear is needle-free and resurfaces the epidermis and upper dermis for tone, texture and crepey skin. Exion RF Microneedling delivers energy through fine needles deeper in the dermis for pores, acne scarring and deeper texture change, and is applied with an exosome serum. Some patients do both in sequence.
What is the difference between Exion Clear and Exion Face?
They treat different problems. Exion Clear resurfaces the skin's surface for tone and texture. Exion Face combines radiofrequency with targeted ultrasound to improve firmness and hydration in mildly lax skin, with no flaking at all. If your concern is lift or a softening jawline rather than surface quality, Exion Face or Emface is the better fit.
Can men have Exion Clear?
Yes. Sun-related texture change, uneven tone and enlarged pores are common reasons men book, and treatment is identical. Beard areas are usually avoided or treated at lower settings, and most male patients find the one to three days of flaking easy to work around.
Is Exion Clear safe for darker skin tones?
Generally yes, with conservative settings. Because only a fraction of the surface is treated and the untouched skin between columns speeds healing, fractional radiofrequency carries a lower pigmentation risk than fully ablative lasers, and published series include patients with skin type VI. We still test-treat where appropriate and insist on strict sun protection throughout the course.
Can you treat my neck and chest as well as my face?
Yes. The face, neck and decolletage are all treatable, and crepey skin on the neck and sun damage on the upper chest are among the most common reasons patients ask for Exion Clear. We do not offer a body applicator, so treatment is limited to those three areas.
Can Exion Clear be combined with Botox or Emface?
Yes, and combinations are common because each treats a different layer. Botox softens expression lines, Emface tones the underlying muscle, and Exion Clear refines the surface. We plan the order and spacing at consultation, usually leaving two weeks between Exion Clear and injectable treatment in the same area.

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References

  1. Hruza G et al., J Drugs Dermatol. (2009). Skin rejuvenation and wrinkle reduction using a fractional radiofrequency system: texture improved with minimal pain and no significant downtime. PMID: 19271373.
  2. Brightman L et al., J Drugs Dermatol. (2009). Sublative rejuvenation: experience with a new fractional radiofrequency system for skin rejuvenation and repair. PMID: 19916261.
  3. Kleidona IA et al., J Cosmet Laser Ther. (2020). Fractional radiofrequency in the treatment of skin aging, an evidence-based treatment protocol: efficacy confirmed on face, neck and decolletage across 25 studies. PMID: 31825296.
  4. Amori P et al., Dermatol Ther. (2020). Fractional RF on the face, neck and decolletage improved texture and tone and reduced micro-wrinkles and spots. PMID: 32283568.
  5. Battle F et al., J Drugs Dermatol. (2018). Three fractional RF sessions improved wrinkles and overall appearance in 35 skin type VI patients without significant adverse events. PMID: 30481955.
  6. Serdar ZA et al., Dermatol Ther. (2019). In 333 patients, fractional RF matched fractional Er:YAG laser on facial and neck wrinkles, with no difference in side effects. PMID: 31381220.
  7. American Academy of Dermatology. (2025). Patient resource on energy-based skin resurfacing and collagen-stimulating treatments.